The Cost of a Trip between Boulder and Denver based on Gas Prices

Looking to take a trip from Boulder to Denver? One of the most important considerations will be the cost of transportation. Whether you’re looking to drive, take public transportation or use a ride-sharing service, the cost of travel can vary depending on your mode of transportation and what route you choose.

So, what is the cost of a trip between Boulder and Denver based on gas prices? This article will explore the different routes you can take and what you can expect to pay.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: Taking US-36 E

One of the most popular routes between Boulder and Denver is US-36 E. It’s a fairly direct route, taking you straight from Boulder to Denver on a highway. The journey is about 26 miles and should take around 35 minutes.

If you’re driving yourself, the cost will depend on your vehicle and gas prices. According to GasBuddy, gasoline in Boulder costs, on average, $2.69 as of August 2021. This means that for a standard car that gets around 24 miles per gallon (MPG), you can expect to pay around $2.81 for one-way travel. The cost of tolls should also be factored in, which typically cost around $6.60 each way.

For public transportation, taking the RTD Bus is a more affordable option at $5.25 for a one-way trip, with a journey time estimated between 30 to 50 minutes.

Route 2: Taking I-25 S

Another popular route is via I-25 S. It’s a little longer, covering around 32 miles between Boulder and central Denver, and it would take just over 30 minutes to travel.

If you’re driving yourself, gas prices in Denver are slightly lower than in Boulder at an average of $2.65. Using the same calculations as before and adding in the cost of tolls, you’re looking at roughly $3.12 (one-way) if your car gets the same MPG.

Taking the RTD Bus is also an option at around $5.25 for a journey that will take up to an hour.

Route 3: Taking US-36 E and I-270 E

Finally, you can reach Denver by taking a combination of US-36 E and I-270 E. This route is the longest of the three, covering roughly 36 miles with a travel time of approximately 40 minutes.

When driving yourself, the route would cost roughly $3.83 one way, with tolls at around $7 each way. Because it has the longest travel time of all three routes, it may not be the most economical.

Taking public transportation for this route is not straightforward, as there is no direct route. The nearest RTD Bus stop would require a transfer, bringing the cost up to around $9.50.

Best Route Recommendation

Based on distance, travel time, and cost, taking US-36 E is the most practical route. It provides a direct highway connection and is the most affordable option for individual drivers, costing on average $2.81. Using RTD buses can also save you a few dollars, but the travel time of approximately 50 minutes is longer than the drive. However, depending on the time of day and potential traffic, taking a bus or ride-share service may be more practical.

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of a trip from Boulder to Denver can vary depending on your choice of transportation, route, and gas prices. Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution, US-36 E remains the most practical option for those who drive themselves because of the direct connection and the lower costs. For those seeking to cut costs, taking the RTD bus can be considered, but the travel time needs to be factored in. Overall, a trip between Boulder and Denver can be affordable and an easy alternative to traffic congestion during busy hours.